Villarreal Sign Thomas Partey on Free Transfer Amid Ongoing Legal Proceedings
Spanish La Liga club Villarreal have announced the signing of Ghanaian midfielder Thomas Partey on a two-year contract. The 32-year-old joins the Yellow Submarine on a free transfer following the expiration of his deal with Premier League side Arsenal at the end of the 2024/2025 season.
Partey brings a wealth of experience to Villarreal, having played a key role in Arsenal’s run to the UEFA Champions League semifinals last season. The Spanish club, who have qualified for next season’s Champions League, view his arrival as a significant reinforcement to their midfield ahead of their European campaign.
However, the move comes as Partey faces ongoing legal issues in England. The midfielder appeared before Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, where he was charged with five counts of rape involving two women, as well as one count of sexual assault involving a third woman. The alleged incidents are reported to have taken place between 2021 and 2022 during his time at Arsenal.
Partey has been granted conditional bail as legal proceedings continue.
Despite the serious nature of the charges, Villarreal are moving forward with the signing, expressing confidence in the player’s on-field contributions and experience. The club has yet to comment publicly on the legal case.
